South East Cornwall MP Sheryll Murray recently met with 11 year old Stella Sarmias from Callington and her mother Barbara, to discuss a petition Stella has organised to ask for a law against puppy farming. Stella outlined what a horrendous business she thought puppy farming is at one of Sheryll’s regular advice surgeries.
Sheryll heard how breeding bitches can be kept in cages or small pens, they rarely see daylight or even touch grass, and are mated every time they are in season – they are fed just enough to keep them producing puppies, with little or no veterinary care at all.
The puppies are usually removed from their mothers too early. As a result the puppies are often not socialised which can lead to behaviour problems and fatal health problems, as well as dangerous infestations of fleas and worms.
Stella has managed to get over 250 signatures for her petition, and as she stated to Sheryll most of the people who signed the petition are not too passionate about dogs, but were appalled by the conditions they are kept in, and the treatment they receive.
Sheryll will be presenting the petition to the House of Commons to take action on this issue on Stella’s behalf.
In a statement Sheryll said, “The practice of having large scale breeding premises for puppies is one that I strongly oppose and I am keen to bring this matter to the attention of the government. These farms seem to me to be just there to make money without due consideration of the cost to the animals which are often kept in cruel and cramped conditions. I will be looking at what can be done to end this barbaric practice.”
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Pictured: Sheryll meets with Stella, her mother and brother.
For further information please contact Sheryll’s office on 01579 344428